Ireland international winger Simon Zebo is one of nine players to have agreed new terms with Munster that will keep him at Thomond Park until the end of the 2015-16 campaign.

The 22-year-old, who made his Test debut against New Zealand last summer, is joined by No.8 James Coughlan, who made his 100th appearance for the province against Saracens last month, hooker Mike Sherry, lock Dave Foley, back-row Paddy Butler and flanker Sean Dougall in penning a new contract. The group also includes three players who were on development deals - JJ Hanrahan, Dave O'Callaghan and Luke O'Dea.

Munster boss Rob Penney was delighted with the news and said: "I think it gives the organisation real security going forward having that number re-committing to the group. Its a real positive sign that the lads believe in what's happening here and can see a future here for themselves.

"And I think for the Munster supporters and everyone that has an attachment to Munster they can be really rapt that the playing future is being secured for the short to medium and in some cases even a long term. So yes it's wonderful news."

Munster take on the Cardiff Blues on Sunday in a match that will see Ronan O'Gara become the province's most capped player in what will be his 234th appearance. Ireland boss Declan Kidney will also be pleased to see Keith Earls back in action as he recovers from injury to take his place at outside centre.